From the whitewashed villages of Santorini to the hidden coves of the Cyclades, discover why a small ship cruise is the finest way to experience the magic of the Greek Islands.
There's something almost mythical about approaching a Greek island by sea. The whitewashed houses emerge from the morning haze, tumbling down hillsides to meet the deep blue of the Aegean. Church domes catch the early light. Fishing boats bob in harbours that have welcomed sailors for millennia. It's a view that reminds you why Greece has captivated travellers since the time of Odysseus.
A small ship cruise through the Greek Islands offers this experience in its purest form. Unlike massive cruise liners that dock at busy commercial ports, small ships slip into intimate harbours, anchor in secluded bays, and access places that larger vessels simply cannot reach. You'll swim in crystal-clear waters far from the crowds, explore ancient ruins with expert guides, and dine on fresh seafood in waterfront tavernas where locals still outnumber tourists.
At Diamond Star Experience, we've spent 30 years perfecting Greek Island small ship cruises. We've personally inspected every ship, sailed every route, and built relationships with the captains and crews who make these voyages so special. This guide shares everything we've learned about choosing the perfect Greek Island cruise.
Why Choose a Small Ship Cruise?
The difference between a small ship cruise and a conventional cruise liner is the difference between exploring Greece and simply visiting it. With typically 25 to 50 passengers (compared to thousands on larger ships), small vessels create an intimate, personalised experience that transforms your holiday.
Flexible itineraries allow access to smaller ports and hidden coves that large ships cannot reach. Personal service means attentive crew who remember your preferences and go the extra mile. Privacy comes naturally when you're not queuing with thousands of other passengers. Authentic experiences emerge when local guides can show you the real Greece, not just the tourist highlights. And there's an environmental benefit too: small ships use less fuel and produce fewer emissions, making them a more sustainable choice for conscientious travellers.
Each day on a small ship cruise brings variety. You might wake anchored in a secluded bay, swim before breakfast, then sail to an ancient archaeological site for a morning tour. After lunch on deck, there's time for another swim stop before arriving at a charming island town for an evening of exploration. Expert tour guides plan each day, but there's always freedom to set your own pace.
Our Greek Island Cruise Collection
We offer a carefully curated selection of Greek Island cruises, each showcasing different aspects of this extraordinary country. Whether you're drawn to the iconic Cyclades, the lush Ionian Islands, or the lesser-known gems of the Aegean, there's a cruise to match your interests.
This 8-day voyage aboard the Harmony V or Harmony G is a masterclass in Greek civilisation. Departing from Athens, you'll sail past Cape Sounion with its Temple of Poseidon, explore the sacred island of Delos (birthplace of Apollo and a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and experience the iconic beauty of Santorini and Mykonos. The itinerary also includes Crete, the hidden gem of Kythira, the medieval fortress town of Monemvasia, historic Nafplion, and the artist's haven of Hydra.
Prices start from £2,528 per person (Category C cabin on Harmony G), with late availability discounts of up to 20%. The cruise operates from April through October, with 36 cabins and a maximum of 42 passengers ensuring an intimate atmosphere.
For the ultimate boutique cruise experience, the Elysium sets a new standard. With just 25 elegant cabins for a maximum of 54 passengers, this vessel feels more like a private yacht than a cruise ship. The Divine Cyclades itinerary takes you from Lavrion (near Athens) through the heart of the Cyclades: Delos, Mykonos, Naxos, the tiny gems of Schinoussa and Koufonisi, world-famous Santorini, volcanic Milos, and hidden Kimolos.
What sets the Elysium apart is its Elixir Balance concept. Beyond cultural exploration, guests can enjoy yoga, pilates, and meditation sessions, spa treatments, cooking classes, wine tastings, and a range of water sports. Farm-to-table dining, an open wellness philosophy, and impeccable service create an experience that's as rejuvenating as it is enriching. Prices start from £2,478 per person, with late availability discounts of up to 25%.
The newest addition to our fleet, M/Y Gemaya offers just 5 sumptuous cabins for a maximum of 12 guests – the most intimate Greek Island cruise experience available. This 33-metre luxury yacht combines military heritage with elegant design, featuring a jacuzzi, swim platform, and an impressive array of water toys including sea bobs, sea scooters, kayaks, SUPs, and water skiing equipment.
Three distinct itineraries are available: Sparkling Cyclades, Aegean Escape, and Saronic Gems. The Gemaya experience includes half-board dining with an open bar, complimentary water sports sessions, and a crew of six dedicated to making your voyage exceptional. Prices start from £3,925 per person, with remarkable late availability discounts of up to 50% on selected dates.
Aboard the M/S Galileo or M/S Panorama, this 8-day cruise reveals the authentic heart of the Cyclades. The name comes from the Greek word 'kyklos' (circle), as these islands form a ring around the sacred island of Delos. Your voyage includes Poros, the pristine beaches of Poliegos, the dramatic cliffs of Folegandros, iconic Santorini, charming Paros with its famous Greek Night celebration, cosmopolitan Mykonos, the elegant capital island of Syros, and peaceful Kythnos.
With 24 cabins and a maximum of 49 passengers, the atmosphere is relaxed and sociable. Prices start from £2,548 per person (special offer rate), with early booking discounts available for 2027 departures.
This unique itinerary aboard the Elysium combines two countries in one seamless voyage. From Lavrion, sail to sacred Delos and glamorous Mykonos before crossing to Kusadasi on the Turkish coast for a guided visit to ancient Ephesus – one of the world's most remarkably preserved archaeological sites. Continue to the sacred island of Patmos (where St John wrote the Book of Revelation), lush Samos, charming Paros, and the hidden gem of Sifnos.
Prices start from £2,398 per person, with exceptional late availability offers from just £1,200 for the April 2026 departure. This cruise offers outstanding value for those with flexible travel dates.
For travellers seeking the authentic Greece beyond the famous names, this cruise aboard M/S Panorama ventures to islands most visitors never see. The itinerary includes long-lived Ikaria (where locals live an average of 10 years longer than elsewhere in Greece), sacred Patmos, tiny Lipsi with its exclusive local wine, sponge-diving Kalymnos, cinematic Amorgos (filming location for 'The Big Blue'), the hidden gems of Koufonisia and Iraklia, and artistic Serifos.
This is Greek island life as it has been lived for generations – unhurried, hospitable, and deeply authentic. Prices start from £2,730 per person, with late availability discounts of up to 20%.
The Ionian Islands offer a different Greece – lusher, greener, with Venetian architecture and a more relaxed pace. This 8-day cruise aboard Harmony G begins with the dramatic night-time passage through the Corinth Canal, then explores legendary Kefalonia (setting for 'Captain Corelli's Mandolin'), the exotic beaches of Antipaxos and Paxos with their famous blue caves, elegant Corfu with its UNESCO-listed old town, mythical Ithaca (home of Odysseus), and historic Messolonghi.
The return journey includes stops at peaceful Aegina and the Temple of Poseidon at Cape Sounion. Prices start from £2,298 per person, with late availability discounts of up to 20%.
This extraordinary cruise aboard M/S Galileo focuses on mainland Greece's archaeological treasures rather than the islands. Guided by expert historian Eugenia Alexiou, you'll explore the Peloponnese Peninsula – the cradle of Western civilisation. Visit the ancient theatre of Epidaurus with its perfect acoustics, golden Mycenae (kingdom of Agamemnon), the medieval fortress of Monemvasia, the spectacular Diros Caves, Nestor's Palace at Pylos, the birthplace of the Olympics at Olympia, and the sacred sanctuary of Delphi.
Operating during winter months and shoulder seasons (including April and October), this cruise offers exceptional value from just £1,478 per person – making it one of our most affordable Greek cruises.
Combining the boutique luxury of the Elysium with the natural beauty of the Ionian Islands, this cruise offers an unforgettable western Greece experience. The itinerary includes the Corinth Canal crossing, legendary Ithaca, picturesque Fiskardo in Kefalonia, the turquoise waters of Antipaxos and Paxos, a visit to Sarandë in Albania (with optional excursion to UNESCO-listed Butrint), elegant Corfu, peaceful Meganisi and Lefkada, and the ancient sanctuary of Delphi.
All the Elysium's wellness offerings are included: yoga, pilates, meditation, spa access, water sports, and exceptional farm-to-table dining. Prices start from £2,498 per person, with early booking discounts of up to 10%.
Our Fleet: Ships That Feel Like Home
Each vessel in our Greek Island small ship cruise collection has been chosen for its combination of comfort, character, and capability. All feature air-conditioned cabins with private facilities, attentive crew, and excellent cuisine.
The Harmony V and Harmony G (36-42 passengers) offer classic small ship cruising with sea-view cabins across multiple categories. M/S Galileo and M/S Panorama (49 passengers) provide slightly larger vessels with extensive deck space and comfortable public areas. The Elysium (54 passengers) elevates the experience with its wellness focus, boutique atmosphere, and refined service. And the intimate M/Y Gemaya (12 passengers) offers a true yacht experience with exceptional personal attention.
What's Included in Your Cruise
Our Greek Island cruises operate on a half-board basis, typically including buffet breakfast and one main meal daily. Special events such as welcome cocktails, Greek night celebrations, al fresco BBQs (weather permitting), and Captain's farewell dinners are included throughout the voyage. Complimentary tea, coffee, and drinking water are available all day.
All cruises include accommodation in air-conditioned cabins with private facilities, the services of an English-speaking cruise escort, and use of fishing and snorkelling equipment (subject to availability). Most cruises include complimentary private transfers between Athens airport and the ship.
Port taxes (typically £278-£340 per person) are additional and payable separately. Shore excursions are optional extras, allowing you to choose which sites interest you most. Flights are not included in cruise prices, but we can arrange these from any UK airport – when booked through us, your entire holiday is ATOL protected.
Planning Your Greek Island Cruise
When to Go
The Greek Island cruise season runs from April through October. Peak summer (July and August) brings the warmest weather and sea temperatures but also higher prices and busier islands. We particularly recommend May, June, and September – still excellent conditions with better availability and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Antiquity to Byzantium cruise offers an excellent winter option for those interested in archaeology over swimming.
Cruise and Stay Options
We can tailor any Athens and Greek Islands cruise-and-stay holiday, adding hotel nights before or after your cruise to suit your plans. If your flight doesn't arrive early enough for embarkation or departs too early after disembarkation, we recommend adding a night at one of our carefully selected 4-star or 5-star Athens hotels.
Late Availability and Early Booking
Significant savings are available for flexible travellers. Late availability discounts of up to 50% (on the Gemaya) make luxury Greek Island cruising remarkably accessible. Alternatively, early booking discounts of up to 10% reward those who plan ahead for 2027 departures.
Why Book Your Greek Island Cruise with Diamond Star Experience
Greek Island cruising is one of our specialities. We've built relationships with ship operators over three decades, which means we can offer expert advice, competitive prices, and access to cabins that might not be available elsewhere. Our team has personally sailed these routes and can recommend the right cruise for your interests, whether you're drawn to ancient history, natural beauty, wellness, or simply relaxation.
When you speak with our specialist Akin on 0333 300 4420, you're getting advice from someone with extensive personal experience of these cruises. He can tell you which ships suit different types of traveller, which itineraries offer the best value, and which departures still have availability. That expertise – combined with our 100% financial protection and responsive customer service – is why our guests return year after year.
What Our Guests Say
"We went to Diamond Star Experience because they offer multi-centre holidays and had good ratings. We were in no way disappointed. We said that we wanted a few days in Athens and then a week on a relatively quiet island. Akin made a proposal and organised everything. All transfers were efficiently organised and even when there was a transport hiccup (our fault!) there was a phone call from the Athens back-up team within the hour."
– Mr Alan Fraser, May 2025
Start Planning Your Greek Island Adventure
Whether you're drawn to the iconic Cyclades, the lush Ionian Islands, the archaeological treasures of the Peloponnese, or the boutique luxury of the Elysium, we're here to help you find the perfect Greek Island cruise. With prices starting from £1,478 and discounts of up to 50% on late availability, there's never been a better time to explore Greece by sea.
Browse our full range of Greek Island small ship cruises on our website, or speak directly with Akin on 0333 300 4420 to discuss your requirements. You can also reach us by email or WhatsApp – we'll respond promptly and personally.
The Greek Islands are calling. Let Diamond Star Experience help you answer.
Related: Classical Greece Cruise | Divine Cyclades Elysium | Jewels of the Cyclades | Ionian Odyssey | Greek Island Gulet Cruises | Athens City Breaks
